When is it time for a tune-up?

While instrument maintenance is a subject that we have discussed in the past, it's never too soon for a reminder...

Here at A. Cavallo Violins, we really care about keeping your instruments in the best condition. Players performing on their instruments every day often do not notice incremental changes in adjustment and condition. Therefore it is always wise to have your instrument looked at by someone on the outside.

Here are a few checkpoints:

1. What it the health of your strings? Some strings go dead before going false, and you may have not noticed it over the course of weeks or months. (We sell strings at the same price as all major on-line sellers, and never charge for installation).

A Badly Managed Bridge!!

2. Is your bridge properly placed and straight? Keeping your bridge straight is a skill all advanced players should know. The multiple pounds of downward pressure or a bridge will warp it if it is not maintained.

3. Does your instrument have any openings or cracks? Sometimes even a very small open seam that is hard to see can significantly affect your tone. The smaller the opening, the less cost of repair!

4. Are the fittings in good shape? Fingerboards recurrently need re-shaping, tailpieces can be cracked and the improper length or weight, tailguts can be in danger of breaking, and peg shafts can become warped or out of round. All of these things can severely impact your playing, and are often easy and inexpensive to fix.

We must see each instrument before estimating cost and time necessary to complete each repair. Unfortunately it is impossible to estimate from a telephone call or pictures.

We pride ourselves at having trustworthy repair and restoration staff that includes Mark Womack, Dirk Henry, Cesario Amesquita, and Dane Anderson doing work for us. Many adjustments and repairs can be done by the next day because of our resources.

As always, we recommend a humidifier for your case and never ever leaving your instrument in a cold or hot car.

A. Cavallo Violins, LLC

What to Know When Buying a Bow
outside of shop
Dear Friends:

In the last few weeks bows seem to have been on our customer's minds. Since knowledge is power, we thought it was a good idea to give you an outline of the choices you have when buying a bow, and the advantages or disadvantages you have with each materiel and making technique.

If you have any questions regarding instruments or bows, do not hesitate to call us, as we are always happy to help you increase your knowledge and discernment.

Above all, make beautiful music!

Musically Yours,

The Staff at A. Cavallo Violins, LLC
A. Cavallo Violins, LLC
Bows, Bows, Bows
How to make the right choice

Your bow is as significant to your playing as your instrument, but it is often ignored during the purchase. We remind our customers that proportionately you get "more bang for the buck" when you spend more on the bow. Conventional wisdom is that the bow should be about 25-35% of your total instrument and bow purchase, and we believe that proportion is about right.

Bow sticks are made of at least four different materials: Pernambuco, Carbon Fiber, Brazilwood, and Fiberglass.

The gold standard for bows is Pernambuco, but the wood is endangered and the bows are quite breakable. Typically pernambuco bows start at around $200, and the finest examples are over $200,000! Bows are usually graded by the company or maker by their fittings. Nickel mounting is the entry level, Silver is usually second, and then fancier silver or frog materials such as snakewood, shell, or ivory can reflect the maker's assessment of the stick. The best commercial bows are now coming out of Brazil, as the Pernambuco is no longer available anywhere else due to import/export restrictions. Pernambuco combines a strength, flexibility, response, speed and ability to hold camber (the curve, induced by heat) at a higher level than any other natural product.

Brazilwood it thearcos brasil bow other natural product used commonly. These days it refers to any wood that mimics pernambuco. Typically, these bows do not have the playability and ability to hold camber like pernambuco, but they often produce a warm sound. Brazilwood bows can be as inexpensive as $30.00 and are often the choice of beginners.

Fiberglass is the student choice. Usually fiberglass has more strength and resilience and less camber issues than brazilwood, but is usually not very playable. Cost is low, usually under $50 for a violin bow.

Carbon Fiber bows are attempts to create a process and material that rivals pernambuco. Carbon fiber is practically unbreakable and will almost never lose its camber. The quickness and response of the better carbon fiber bows, such as the JonPaul and CodaBow brands, come close to pernambuco in warmth and tone. Many professional players have a carbon fiber bow as a "pit bow," for such playing as opera, musical, or pops that does not demand individual tone, and is used in a dangerous environment for fragile pernambuco or any other wood.

So far we have only written about the stick materials. There are many other materials and workmanship issues that affect the quality, cost, and performance of bows, but we will reserve that for a later discussion!



Interesting Bow Websites


www.arcosbrasil.com

www.watervioletbows.com.br

www.ipci-usa.org

www.jonpaulstrings.com

www.codabow.com









A. Cavallo Violins, LLC

8705 Shamrock Road

Omaha, NE 68114

toll free
877 838 6222

Thank you A. Cavallo

Hi Alex,

Thank you so much for hosting us yesterday at the Art of Sound Exhibition. I had a great time and enjoyed meeting the maker of my violin, David Thomas Meyer. I feel privileged to have such intimate access to the origins of my instrument and to have it explained to me in such exquisite detail. I think every string player should have a chance to hear Meyer's presentation about violin making as his research is pertinent to all instruments. Mr. Meyer gave me a true appreciation for how a violin works from a physics perspective, down to the most minute vibrations of wood. He showed, via computer imaging techniques, which parts of the violin are the most resonant and allowed us to experience a hands-on experiment with producing tones on an actual sample of wood. The amount of meticulous scientific detail that Mr. Meyer puts into his craft results in instruments that sound fantastic. Many thanks to A. Cavallo Violins for making this all happen!

Best,
Katrin

Unique Opportunity to See Great Instruments

The Art of Sound: An Exhibtion of Violins and Violas by Today's Master Makers
which runs March 19 - April 9, 2010 is open! This year we have more instruments than ever and the makers represented in the show are among the most well known.

It is an opportunity to see and hear fine violins and violas made by some of the best living makers in the world.

The show is free and open to the public during regular business hours.
Monday, 1-5pm
Tuesday - Friday, 10am - 6pm
Saturday, 11am - 5pm

Special Event Coming Soon:
On March 30th, we will host the first ever benefit auction for the Omaha Conservatory's Scholarship Fund hosted by Hal France. Enjoy a wine tasting, an auction of instruments from the show starting at incredibly low prices, and a performance on show instruments.
Details below

A. Cavallo Violins LLC
Benefit Auction

Proceeds will benefit the
Omaha Conservatory of Music's Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Conservatory's Scholarship Fund is to aid those students
who show great potential and are also demonstrate financial need.

Tuesday, March 30, 2010
7:30 pm

-Wine Tasting-
-Performance-
-Instrument Auction of Show Instruments-

Hal France,Celebrity Host

Tickets are $28.00 a person

For reservations call
402.827.9270 or 1.877.838.6222
or come by the A. Cavallo Violins, LLC at 87th & Pacific (in Countryside Village)

Reservations will be on a first come first served basis. Space is limited.
Our events are great fun and usually sell out, so call us early to reserve your place.
We look forward to hearing from you!

If you can't come to the event but you want to bid on an instrument see below:

CAN I BID ON AN INSTRUMENT EVEN IF I CAN’T COME TO THE EVENT MARCH 30TH?
Yes. You may bid on an instrument using our Absentee Bidding System. Absentee bids will be accepted by mail, phone, or e-mail up until Saturday, March 27th at 5:00 pm. Please have your bids in as early as possible so that we will be able to effectively bid for you. For full details of the Absentee Bidding System, contact A. Cavallo Violins, LLC or see our website.

CAN I BID ON AN INSTRUMENT CONFIDENTIALLY?
Yes. A. Cavallo Violins, LLC will use the strictest measures of confidentiality maintaining and executing absentee bids.

CAN I BID ON AN INSTRUMENT AND DONATE IT TO THE OMAHA CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC IF I WIN?
Yes. The Conservatory will benefit from the proceeds of the instrument you purchase and then benefit again from the gift of a beautiful instrument to lend to a worthy student in need.

CAN I SEE THE INSTRUMENTS BEFORE THE AUCTION?
Yes. We would be happy for you to come by A. Cavallo Violins, LLC to see the instruments. You may wish to set up an appointment by calling 402.827.9270 or toll free 877.838.6222.

CAN I SEE THE INSTRUMENTS ONLINE BEFORE THE AUCTION IF I LIVE OUT OF TOWN?
Yes. Pictures & descriptions of instruments are available on www.acavalloviolins.com under Special Events.

Back to School Check List

The time has come again to begin preparing for the upcoming school year. Whether a beginner or an artist, there are a few friendly reminders that can aid each of you. Below is a check list of accessories and services that may benefit you. As always, please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.

Rosin

An absolute essential for every player! If the rosin has been exposed to high temperatures, touched by fingers, or is just simply broken the working components have been compromised.

A basic, yet artistic level rosin, starts around $8 for every instrument!

Strings

How long has it been since your strings have been changed? Strings typically need changed at least 1 time per year, depending on amount of time spent playing the instrument. This is because the strings get worn and either become 'dead' or 'false', resulting in an impure tone. These prices vary depending on the instrument and type of string.

We sell at the lowest price allowed, plus, upon your purchase in store we install for FREE!

Bow Rehair

When was the last time your bow has been rehaired or inspected? Bows should be rehaired approximately once per year and also checked for camber issues. A sign of needing a rehair includes build-up by the frog or tip.

We now offer bow rehair in house!

Pegs

Are those pegs just too hard to turn or creaking with every turn? We've got the solution (assuming everything is working correctly)! Stop in and we'll see if this is the quick 15 minute solution for your instrument.

This service is FREE!

As always, feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,
The Staff at A. Cavallo Violins

8705 Shamrock Rd.
Omaha, NE 68114

1.877.838.6222
402.827.9270

acvsales@gmail.com
www.acavalloviolins.com

Sizing Stringed Instruments

Here is a tip just in time for gearing up for the school season. Sizing a stringed instrument is a question which you will find multiple answers for. There is no absolute standard in approaching sizing of a violin, viola, or cello to a student. However, through the years, Alex has learned some general guidelines that work well.

General Guidelines for Sizing Violin & Viola Students

• With the student standing straight with arms at side, nestle instrument into playing position on shoulder
  
• Have the student reach their left arm straight out to the side, horizontal to the floor, with their palm facing up
  
• The top of the scroll should meet the arm at the wrist. If the instrument is too large, it will begin to set into the palm. If the instrument is too small, it will come short of meeting the wrist.
• The overall decision of 'pushing' a student into a larger size is typically determined by the instructor. However, a general rule is that violists can be 'pushed' more.
  

General Guidelines for Sizing Cello Students

• Pull the endpin out equal-distant to the tailpiece
  
• With the student sitting on the front edge of a chair and feet flat on the floor, place the cello into position
• The curve of the scroll should sit next to the ear of the student. If the instrument is too small, the scroll will fall short of the ear. If the instrument is too large, it will rise above the student's ear.

Again, these are general guidelines that we use in shop; but there is no set standard in the business. We hope that these tips aid in the selection of a properly sized violin, viola, or cello.

-Cassandra General Manager

Everyday Instrument Care Tips

Ever wondered what simple things you can do everyday to care for your instrument? Here is a list of friendly tips and reminders for those young or old, beginners or artists.

Everyday Instrument Care Tips

• Be sure to loosen your bow after each session, whether practicing or performing. A bow left tight will cause a gradual loss in camber of the stick.
• Consistently wipe-off the rosin residue from the instrument with a 100% cotton cloth. If left on the instrument, this residue will deteriorate the varnish. A microfiber cloth is another idea for cleaning and light polishing.
• To lengthen the life of your case, be sure to always clasp and zip it shut. If any of these are left undone, the case will eventually loose it's shape and decrease it's protection of the instrument and function of the case.
• Never leave shoulder rests attached to instruments when putting in the case; even sponges or foams. If left on, once the case is closed extra pressure will be placed on the bridge, which is already carrying the tension weight of the strings.
• In climates or seasons where the humidity is low (less that 50%), an in-case or in-instrument humidifier should be used. There are many options, from models needing filled daily to just once per week. By using a humidifier, it reduces the stress of swelling and contracting of the instrument wood which causes natural openings and sometimes cracks.
  
• If carrying your case backpack style, consider switching to 1 strap that fits diagonally over one shoulder, across the chest, and under the opposite arm. This is known to more evenly distribute the weight of the instrument and case, rather than pulling on the body.

These are just a handful of simple tips that we pass along to our in-store customers and hope brings a longer life to your instrument 'outfit'.

-Cassandra General Manager

Peg Tuning Tips

Through the years, both as a violinist and teacher, one daily task seems scary for many - tuning with the pegs. I have personally never approached the task with fear, only as a challenge and necessity. One admission is that tuning with the pegs regularly presented one issue or another prior to knowledge of the following basic tips.

Peg Tuning Tips

• If fine tuners are turned completely down or are loose, turn them to a middle range.
• Inspect how the string is wound onto the peg. The string should be through the peg hole, then be wound evenly towards the edge of the pegbox; be sure not to cram the string against the pegbox or leave space, either of these errors will result in difficult peg tuning.
• As turning the peg, apply inward pressure (push towards pegbox). Monitor the string, that it winds evenly towards the edge of the pegbox.
• Turn the peg slowly, avoiding quick alterations in pitch, as this can cause a string to break.

Properly wound pegs will appear as follows.


There is no getting around tuning with the pegs, it simply takes time and patience to hone the skill. Hopefully these tips will make this daily task a bit less daunting.

-Cassandra General Manager

A Wopperjonged Viola Bridge

A few days ago a long-time customer walked in with a viola that he had deemed as an online bargain viola. Purchased for just a few dollars, including shipping, this viola had served him over the past 3 years. With just a glance, it was impossible for Alex to miss something extremely wrong:


Yes, that is what the bridge looked like... warped, tilted, twisted, any of the above applied to the appearance and stance. The customer did not realize that all of these descriptions made the viola dysfunctional.

As a purchaser, online shopping may appear convenient, especially in possibly meeting budget constraints; however, it has a great potential to turn into a costly investment that may not have any real retail value. The bridge incident is a prime example! It costs about $100 to get a bridge made for the viola between labor and materials... luckily, we dug into our 'Bridge Graveyard' for this customer, simply placing on a 'functional enough' bridge for his needs.

Helpful Bridge Maintenance Tips
(violin, viola, cello, & bass)

• The side closest to the tailpiece should be perpendicular to the top
• The side closest to the fingerboard should be curved, with a small "pot belly"
  
• Generally, the bridge should be placed so the strings are centered on the fingerboard with the inner notches of the f-holes pointing towards the center of the bridge.
• The top edge of the bridge should look straight when viewed from above.
• Over time, due to tuning, a bridge will usually tilt or lean towards the fingerboard. The key is to monitor the position and straighten it according to the angle of the side closest to the tailpiece.
  
• If a bridge is not kept straight, it will warp, creating problems with tuning and tone
• Once a bridge is warped, there is no other solution besides having a new one made
• Adjustments on the bridge tilt should always be made by gently grasping the top of the bridge between strings 1-2 and 3-4.
• The placement of the bridge feet should always be done by grasping the feet. Often, tension on the strings must be partially relieved before moving the bridge.
• Never grab the bridge by the middle or you may break it!

In the end, be aware of your bridge. If you are uncomfortable adjusting the bridge, take it to a good violin shop, there should be no or little charge for this service. Also, be a smart consumer when finding online bargains.

Here's to straight bridges!
You will play in tune more easily, and the fiddle should sing!

Spring Clearance Sale!

Hello friends! Right now we have an amazing storewide Spring Clearance Sale going on until the 1st of June. We have already had a great response during this sale and have been able to equip players of all ages, from the beginner to the performing artist with beautiful instruments, cases, and bows while they SAVE BIG! We are very excited with the outcome so far and want to make sure every player out there knows about this wonderful sale.

Below are some examples of qualifying instruments. We hope that this opportunity will fulfill the needs of the player in your life. Please contact us directly for more specific information on qualifying instruments.

Sincerely,

A. Cavallo Violins, LLC

Used Violin Outfits Each of these instruments are hand-carved under the supervision of a European master by fine craftsmen in Beijing, China. They have all of the features of a professional instrument, from the ebony fingerboard and pegs, the aged Himalayan spruce and maple, the hand-applied multi-layered spirit varnish, the tailpiece with four fine tuners, the Dominant, Vision or ProArte strings, and an Aubert French bridge. Each outfit is fitted in Omaha by the experts at A. Cavallo Violins, LLC. The outfit includes a suspension case and brazilwood bow that has an ebony frog and Siberian Stallion horsehair. Outfit includes: Violin, Bow, & Case A. Cavallo Retail: $500 Clearance Price: as low as $200

Concert Series Instruments We specially select these instruments for the advancing student and serious amateur. Each instrument features straight-grained spruce tops, complimented by handsomely flamed maple back, sides, and scroll. The hand-finished shaded or antiqued varnish gives each instrument a striking appearance. Examples of our concert instruments that will take the student to the next level! Violin A. Cavallo Retail: $1,750 Clearance Price: $900 Viola A. Cavallo Retail: $1.900 Clearance Price: $800 Double Bass 35% off select instruments (These instruments are sold without case and bow.)

Artistic Level Instruments Master Instruments Master Instruments are up to 50% off, such as Wojciech Topa, Gunther Lobe, Dimitar Dimitrov, Tansin Diedenbeck, Pavel Onoaie, and Janxin Wu. Violins finished by American Makers These instruments are finished by American makers specifically for Musaica Imports. A. Cavallo Retail: $4,000 Clearance Price: $2,000 (These violins are sold without case and bow.) Cello by Clement & Weise By Clement & Weise of Germany this cello is one of the standards of excellence for tone production and quality among current makers. It is based on a classic Stradivarius pattern with highly accurate measurements, wood thicknesses, and attractive and faithful antique finish. This results in an instrument which can carry the player well into the advanced stages of performance with a minimum investment. This is the introductory instrument in the Clement & Weise line but is in no way a compromise in tonal quality. A. Cavallo Retail: $4,950 Clearance Price: $2,500 (This cello is sold without case and bow.)

Anderson Music Stand This beautiful Anderson Music Stand by Lotus Design is a rich blend of classic beauty and performance. Several patented mechanisms were created to achieve a unique combination of portability and functionality. Handcrafted from the finest Brazilian Cherry or walnut, the Anderson Music Stand will enhance the joy of your musical experience. The desk height varies from 20" - 52" while the exclusive snap-and-lock mechanism allows you to choose six different desk angles and the extra-deep shelf accommodates heavy books or folders. It features aluminum hardware which has been anodized in a rich gold color coating that is extremely durable and will never tarnish. The stand comes with a handy durable padded carrying case with an adjustable shoulder strap. A. Cavallo Retail: $295 Clearance Price: $250

Accessories Discount Receive 25% off cases and bows with any instrument purchase. All accessories are sold at the lowest possible price (Between 10-30% off list price)

Hear It from the Master

Last weekend we were graced by the presence of Stephanie Voss, Certified German Master Violin Maker. She has been crucial to A. Cavallo Violins, LLC over the years for her expertise, wisdom and business experience.

She spent Saturday with us, often helping with the hordes of customers we saw. At one point we had 5 different groups of people looking and trying instruments, a record for the shop. She answered questions about instruments people were looking at, the violin business in general and her personal journey as a violin maker.

That evening, about 30 people convened for the "Hear it from the Master" discussion and wine tasting. There were three segments of discussion, interrupted by three courses of wines, including a German wine, and Italian wine, French wines and American wines in keeping with the diversity and style differences present in "The Art of Sound" exhibition.
Here are some of the questions, answers, and points of discussion that were brought up:

• Q: What is the difference between a "Stradivarius" and "Guarnerius" model violin and what are the reasons for the distinction? A: The biggest visible difference is in the shape of the f-hole and the edge and purfle work. The Guarnerius f-hole is more upright with a teardrop instead of a circle at the top, and is often larger and more open. The Strad corners are often squarer and less rounded, and the c-bouts are more perfectly proportioned, as well as the bee sting from the joining of the purfle always goes to the inside of the c-bouts. Stradivarius model violins tend to be very responsive and have a more silvery clear quality of sound, and Guarnerius violins tend to be darker and more muscular in sound and response.
  

• Q: Was the wood the golden age makers the secret to the great sound? Did it come from a period of mini ice age as many people have suggested? A: The wood in Stradivarius' violins is often not even great (and in his early works not always maple, using a cheaper substitution), and there is great wood available today. One of the neasures is how wide the "winter" grain is, not only the measure of the width of the grain. There is great wood coming from European Alpine, American, Carpathian, and even Chinese enviroments. The distinction of quality is often more about the age and treatment of the wood.

• Q: What about the "Secret of Stradivarius?" Was there such a thing? A:Stradiviarius was an artist! He was just a darn good maker, as good as any, and combined the skills of carving, form, varnish, and inlay to a very high level. His instruments are works of art, and it is not possible to reduce his sucess to a "secret," in fact it does him great injustice!

• Q: Are modern makers inferior to old makers? A: We are in a golden period right now! The level of artistry, worldwide communication, and technical expertise is unrivalled in history. New instruments are very possibly the best investment.

• Q: Are there significant technological innovations in construction changing the violin significantly? A: There have always been experiments historically, but the basic form of the instrument has not changed significantly since the days of Stradivarius. It is overwhelming to think of how such a perfect form was arrived at in 1700!

Everyone left with a good feeeling of violin fellowship, nice wine and gourmet appetizers. They all learned something and incresaed their excitement about the individual creations available from old makers and makers today! -A.

Show Opening

Hello friends! It has been some time since our last post due to preparations for the opening of The Art of Sound: An Exhibition of Today's Master Violin and Viola Makers. Good news is that everything went off without a glitch on Saturday for our opening event. With the show room revamped, the instruments displayed across the shop, a complete catalog of makers and instruments, a price list finalized, and a deep cleaning of the shop we were finally ready. We filled the shop with friends, food, and good performances, accompanied with a wine tasting.

Earlier in the day on Saturday we sold the first violin from the exhibition. Vladimir Logashov's violin finished in 2008 found a home. Throughout the evening we also spoke with a couple of potential buyers. Our point in telling you this?!?! If you're interested in purchasing you best stop in sooner than later because the interest level is high!

Also, if you would like to join us for our event this weekend there are still some seats left, just contact us directly. "Hear from the Mater" will be hosted by Stephanie Voss who is a Certified German Master Violin Maker and will be speaking about styles and methods of violin making.

On top of all this, we were featured in the Sunday Omaha World Herald. To read the story, follow the link.

If that isn't enough to get a violin/viola lover inspired to join us, then I don't know what would be. This is a rare opportunity to see 102 instruments by living makers in the same shop!

Contact us at:
1.877.838.6222
acvsales@gmail.com

Warm regards,
Cassandra

General Manger

2009 Exhibition Opening Event

The Art of Sound:
An Exhibition of Today's Master Violin and Viola Makers

OPENING EVENT:
Wine & Instrument Tasting
Saturday, March 14
7 pm
A. Cavallo Violins, LLC

Come and enjoy an evening filled with music, wine, and appetizers. William Wolcott and other artists will perform on instruments submitted to our exhibition. Three flights of wine will be presented throughout the evening.

Tickets: $28.00 (+ tax)
Tickets must be purchased in advance and seating is limited!

A. Cavallo Violins, LLC
8705 Shamrock Rd.
Omaha, NE 68114
Please contact us with any questions regarding our upcoming instrument exhibition.

402.827.9270
Toll-free: 877.838.6222
acvsales@gmail.com

Renting from A. Cavallo Violins

     Parents come to us with a dilemma: What is the best route for my child this year?  Can I rent or should I buy?  Should I rent from a "music store" or should I rent from a legit violin shop, buy on line, rent on line, rent from my teacher or school......The questions go on and on.

     If you are someone looking for a temporary stringed instrument for either your child or yourself, look no further. In addition to A. Cavallo's reasonably priced violins and cellos, we also offer an extensive rental program for all your stringed instrument needs.  We individually spend time with you, have written warranties and can honor them with our fully staffed workshop, and will keep your child fiddling!

     The first impression any customer may have when considering renting from A. Cavallo is that we charge much more than our competitors. Why might people think this way about A. Cavallo? To put it simply, it is because of our location and appearance. Our company is based in the midst of some very exclusive and high-end grocery stores, coffee shops, and other places which sell high priced amenities. We at A. Cavallo would agree that our shop is quite different from our surrounding neighbors within The Village. We offer

violin and cello rentals at a very reasonable price manageable for almost all budgets. Most of all, we will do whatever we can to make sure you, as a customer, are satisfied with your rental and the price you pay for it bef

ore you walk out our door.

     When you walk through the door of a large company looking to satisfy your violin or cello needs, chances are the attention shown to you will be quite minimal. Customer service is a very important aspect here and you will be greeted with the greatest of enthusiasm and the utmost respect. Alex (president of A. Cavallo) will greet you with a warm smile and an untamable passion for stringed instruments. If Alex happens to be out at the time, Cassy (general manager) will help you with all your needs and questions. 

As a matter of fact, all of the employees at A. Cavallo have at least one degree in string instrument

 performance! For us here at A. Cavallo Violins, to know a customer's name is not uncommon. Alex frequently greets people

who come into our shop by their first or last name. Renting a violin or cello will be easier than you ever thought, thanks to our prices, customer service, and individual attention.

 

Daniel Jacobsen-

Polish Maker's Spotlight: Szlachtowski, Koscielny, & Cracovia Workshop

For a number of years, the shop had been investing its time in locating world class contemporary makers from abroad such as Italy or Germany. However, it seems like the boss recently has had an interest in the up and coming makers of Eastern Europe like Poland, Czech Republic, or Romania. If you've kept tabs on my Twitter account, you may have heard about the arrival of some new instruments. Two of these will be the topic of today's entry as I show off some nice photos of the makers, talk more about their background, and a bit of history on Polish violin making.

Jan Szlachtowski was Born in 1951 in Nowry Targ, Poland. In 1970 he finished school in violin making in Zakopane where he worked under one of the old Polish Masters Jozef Bartoszek. From 1987 to 1988, he worked at W.H. Lee firm in Chicago. In 1988 he returned home to his birth city where he opened up shop and can still be found working today. His main area of work is cello which have established quite a reputation amongst dealers in the U.S.



The workshop of Master Jarek Koscielny in Czetochowa, the town of the famous Black Madonna which is frequently visited by Catholic tourists and pilgrimages. His violins are made in the Stradivari and Guarneri patterns with an antiqued varnish look.



The Cracovia Workshop was established about 6 years ago in Southern Poland. Polish Master Ryszard Florek runs the shop with 4 assistants in the town of Bielsko-Biala. All the instruments are "aged", antiqued, and treated in spirit varnish.


As you can see, some of the best contemporary makers are coming from Eastern Europe. You may think that violin making in these countries are a relatively new cultural phenomenon but not so! According to an article in the the Warsaw Voice, a majority of the Polish violin makers are members of the-oldest, after Italy's, organization of violin makers in Europe. The Association of Polish Artists Violin Makers (ZPAL) is reported to have 113 members and is celebrating its 54th anniversary this May.

In fact, Poland has had a richer history of violin making that dates as far back as the 16th century. The first great makers of that era, Marcin Groblicz I (1530-1609) and Baltazar Dankwart (mid-16th century - 1622), started two dynasties of outstanding violin makers which lasted until the 18th century. Some scholars even believe that the prototype of the violin originated in Poland. Relics such as a primitive fiddle from the 11th century, a five-string instrument from the 12th century and a six-string instrument in 15th-century serve as some of the strongest evidences for their case. A collection of these instruments can be found at the Museum of Musical Instruments in Poznań.

Many of today's Polish makers go through secondary school whose curricula include the art of violin making. There are currently two in the Poland that offer such programs: High School of Fine Arts in Zakopane and High School of Music in Poznań. These schools' graduates have an opportunity to continue their studies at the Violin Making Department of Poznań's Music Academy. This means that Poland is the only country in the world where violin makers can receive a university-level education.

After years of training and apprenticeships, many of them have established their workshop in the mountainous region of Poland. Due to the low cost of labor in Eastern Europe, a favorable currency exchange rate for the US Dollar, and a tradition of highly trained makers, these instruments can be compared with others that are worth two or more times their market price.